BIZARRE
Some residents of Mabalane village say they are living in despair as water from underground, mixed with traces of oil-like substances, continues to ooze, damaging homes, attracting mosquitoes and affecting livestock.
The situation has been ongoing for years and is slowly changing their life, with concerns growing over safety, loss of animals and the health risks linked to stagnant water around homesteads.
The water, which sometimes darkens after long periods on the ground, is described by residents as shiny and thick.
During rainy seasons, they say the problem worsens as it spreads into homesteads, leaving houses soaked and floors constantly damp.
Residents also allege that the stagnant water has created breeding grounds for mosquitoes, raising fears of mosquito-borne illnesses, especially during warmer months when the insects increase in numbers around the affected areas.
The condition has disrupted daily life, particularly for children, as open spaces around homes remain wet for long periods, limiting outdoor play and normal activities.
Residents most affected, among them Tene Masike, said the situation began around 2017 and has persisted without a lasting solution.
Masike said he had previously invited village leaders to come and see the water that never dries up, but the situation has remained unchanged over the years. He continues to feel helpless as the problem worsens. “I have lost all my goats, and I suspect the water has had an effect on them. Our children no longer play outside because the ground is always wet, and the place is close to hills,” he said.
The loss of livestock has affected household livelihoods, as many families depend on animals for survival and income.
Indeed stagnant water could be seen in several locations when this publication visited the area. The water appears shiny with an oily-like reflection when sunlight hits it, although it does not feel greasy when touched.
In some homesteads, the water flows slowly through yards and collects around houses, particularly in low-lying areas where it remains for extended periods.
Another resident, Obakeng Mosate, who lives with his family including a young child, said their home is directly affected by the conditions. The walls of their house constantly absorb moisture due to the wet ground, leaving the structure damp.
Mosate continues to live on the plot despite the challenges because it is the only land allocated to him. Relocating is not an option for him and his family at the moment.
Over time, residents have raised concerns and appealed for assistance, but no permanent solution has been found. As a result, they have gradually adjusted to the situation, even though it continues to affect their daily lives.
Area councillor Molatlhegi Jautse said the situation is linked to natural conditions in the area. He suspects the water may contain metal, pointing out that the area was once rich in mineral deposits.
The locality is said to have slate and other mineral formations, which could be influencing the nature of the water.
Jautse intends to engage relevant stakeholders and residents to assess the situation further and determine whether the water can be managed or possibly used for other purposes, given its continuous presence in the area.
He said technical assessment may be needed to establish the composition of the water and explore possible interventions that could improve living conditions.